Good day,
I am interested in whether intermittent fasting for at least 12 hours is "beneficial" in the case of autoimmunity? You mention the optimum as 16/8; is 12/12 or 14/10 better for cells and immunity than no fasting at all? Does anything positive happen to the immune system with such a shorter fast? I am also interested in the irregularity and benefits of intermittent fasting. Since I have an irregular exercise routine (early mornings, mid-mornings, noons, or later in the evenings), my intermittent fasting is irregular, but I always try to adhere to at least 12/12. I feel better! :-)

It is not possible to perceive this area in a black-and-white manner; it is a matter for broader discussion, and it is also necessary to consider the individual's health condition. Generally, modern civilization is troubled by two major issues related to dietary habits that lead to health disorders:

1. The first is the excess associated with uncontrolled consumption of anything considered edible today.

2. The second is the quality of what we eat - our diets are dominated by highly processed foods, and there is a continuous increase in the proportion of xenobiotics, which have a significant impact on cellular behavior in the body.

In this context, the idea of controlled fasting is very attractive because it allows the body to process everything we have given it and also to rest. This has a clearly positive impact on the behavior of the immune system. Thus, a longer fasting interval is more advantageous than a shorter one. On the other hand, the effectiveness of intermittent fasting (IF) is related not only to the duration of the fasting but also to the quality of the ingredients used and the energy balance. For instance, if the balance is negative, health will still benefit even with shorter fasting periods during IF.

A correct (i.e., healthy) approach to eating should be one that does not produce stress and from which you can derive joy. This is related to the shifting intervals during IF, where the models presented in the course are optimized, but each participant should adapt them to their own preferences.

With autoimmune disorders, some caution is advisable when manipulating any form of fasting; in some diseases, fasting states are not beneficial, and it is sensible to consult these approaches with the attending physician.

Themes:  Weight loss   Fasting